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Time appears to stand still for Stan Wawrinka. Now at 40 years old, the Swiss tennis star is making a remarkable comeback by reaching the finals of the ATP Challenger 175 in Aix-en-Provence. This achievement comes two decades after his first final at this level, back in 2003 in San Benedetto. On Saturday, the former world number three displayed a masterclass against Croatian Borna Gojo, securing victory in two solid sets (6-4, 6-4). His performance exuded the intensity and precision reminiscent of his prime years.
A Spectacular Rise in Form
This latest qualification is part of an encouraging trend for Wawrinka. In the second round of the tournament, he showcased his best performance of the year by defeating the top seed, Alexei Popyrin, ranked 26th in the world, with a scoreline of 6-3, 3-6, 6-1. This decisive win not only confirmed Wawrinka’s resurgence, but it also highlighted that he remains a formidable opponent, currently ranked 158th in the ATP rankings yet clearly a greater threat than his positioning would suggest.
Fully locked. Fully loaded 🔥🔥@stanwawrinka with an absolute ROCKET on his way to claim the first set vs. Gojo 6-4! 🚀#ATPChallenger | @OpenduPaysdAix pic.twitter.com/ypjLiE3rWG
— ATP Challenger Tour (@ATPChallenger) May 3, 2025
A Final with High Stakes
On Sunday, Wawrinka will play in his tenth Challenger final. His opponent will be another Croatian, Borna Coric, who is in strong form and poised to return to the top 100 on Monday. The stakes of this match are high; it’s not just about the title. Winning could propel Wawrinka to the 115th position in the world rankings, providing a strong case for a wild-card entry into the upcoming Roland-Garros tournament. For Wawrinka, this might just be the moment for one last conquest on the court.
Summarizing the Journey
At 40 years old, Stan Wawrinka is set to compete in the finals of the Aix-en-Provence Challenger, marking 22 years since his first final at a similar level. The Swiss player, who is on an upward trajectory, faces Borna Coric, targeting his tenth Challenger title while hoping for a wild-card opportunity at Roland-Garros. With each match, Wawrinka reminds the tennis world of his enduring talent and competitive spirit.
The Road Ahead
As Wawrinka approaches this crucial match, the anticipation is palpable. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see whether the seasoned veteran can capture yet another title and add to his illustrious career. With a history of resilience and skill, the upcoming final is more than just a match; it’s a testament to the power of passion and dedication in sports. This is a story of rebirth and persistence, and it resonates within the heart of every tennis aficionado.
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